How Do I Know If I Need Loft Conversion Planning Permission?
Many conversions can fall under a ‘permitted development’; however, you must consult with local authorities or your architect on regulations to be sure. Midland County Lofts supplies all the advice on loft conversion planning permission, and we seek out the right permissions for all our clients’ projects. Getting the right planning permission can take weeks or months to ensure all the steps are taken.
How Much Does Loft Conversion Planning Permission Cost?
Planning permission fees vary depending on where you live, your local authority and what type of project you are planning. They may range between £200-£460 for an application, but building regulations, if also needed, may be an additional cost on top of this. To meet guidelines and find an affordable solution for your loft conversion, you may have to compromise on the size, style and options for your project to ensure it meets regulations.
Homes That Need Loft Conversion Planning Permission
- Flats and apartments
- Maisonettes
- Homes in conservation areas
- Listed Buildings
Permitted Development For Loft Conversions
Permitted development rights enable homeowners to make improvements and extensions without needing planning permission for projects whose impact is considered minimal.
Size Limits: The added loft space cannot be more than 40 cubic meters for terraced houses or 50 cubic meters for detached and semi-detached houses, including any past loft additions by previous owners.
Front Roof Restrictions: No dormer windows or other extensions are allowed on the roof slope facing the main road (principal elevation).
Height Limit: The conversion cannot make the roof any higher than its original highest point.
Material Consistency: New materials used must look similar to those of the existing house.
Excluded Features: Verandas, balconies, and raised platforms are not permitted as part of the conversion.
Side Window Privacy: Any side-facing windows below 1.7 meters from the floor must have obscured glass.
Eaves Setback: Roof extensions (excluding hip-to-gable) must be set back at least 20cm from the edge of the roof (eaves).
Location Restrictions: The property cannot be located in designated protected areas like conservation areas or National Parks.
Roof Light Projection: Any roof lights installed cannot stick out more than 0.15 meters beyond the original roof surface.
Loft Conversion Planning Permission: Types of Lofts
Roof Light Loft Conversion
A roof light conversion, also known as a room-in-loft conversion, transforms your attic into a usable living space without altering the existing roof structure or expanding the footprint. This method primarily involves installing skylight windows and reinforcing the floor. Generally, loft conversion planning permission is not required for this type of conversion.
Dormer Loft Conversion
The popular dormer conversion involves building a box-shaped extension that projects vertically from the existing roof slope. This creates additional headroom and allows for the installation of standard vertical windows. Often, dormer conversions do not necessitate planning permission.
Hip to Gable Loft Conversion
Ideal for detached and end-of-terrace houses, a hip-to-gable conversion modifies a sloping side roof (the “hip”) into a straight vertical wall (a “gable”). This seemingly small structural change significantly expands the internal living space and is an increasingly favoured option. Loft conversion planning permission may be required for this type of conversion.
Mansard Loft Conversion
A mansard conversion is constructed by raising the party wall and creating a flat roof with one gently sloping outer wall, typically at the rear of the property. While suitable for various house types, they are particularly common in terraced houses. Mansard conversions frequently require loft conversion planning permission.